Update on The Sanctuary – Capitol Hill
The following is adapted from a press release from Realogics Sotheby’s about the status of The Sanctuary development at the former First Church building.
Resource Transition Consultants (“RTC”), the court-appointed receiver for the lender of The Sanctuary, has announced the appointment of a design and construction team – led by Seattle-based general contractor Belfor Property Restoration – to complete the 12-home development by December, 2011. The project is expected to reenter the marketplace for sale in January, 2012.
“We’ve assembled a world-class development team to complete the vision of The Sanctuary – a century-old church in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood that was converted into a premier multifamily community – and we look forward to successfully reintroducing the project for sale in the New Year,” said Rob Nall, Principal of RTC.
In addition to RTC, project lender Pathfinder Partners, LLC and Belfor, The Sanctuary development team now includes:
– Architect – Runberg & Associates
– Construction Representative –The Justen Company
– Interior Designer – Robin Chell Design
– Marketing and Sales – Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty
“Construction is well underway and includes many design improvements recommended by brokers and prospective homebuyers,” said Nall. “We’re retooling the homes for today’s market – resetting prices while adding value to the finished product.”
According to Marty Goodman, principal of The Justen Company, the project scope now includes new clear and operable window systems to complement the historic stained glass in several units; elevator options; acoustical attenuation; refurbishing the central atrium; and restoration work on the historic exterior. In addition to warranties offered by manufacturers of installed systems and appliances, homeowners will benefit from a third party home warranty program that will be included with each sale.
“We’re fortunate that RTC and Pathfinder are investing substantial resources to reach the full potential of this extraordinary development,” said Goodman. Belfor Property Restoration, a division of Belfor Construction, is tasked with completing the construction of the 12 concrete and steel townhomes and restoring the historic façade of the original building.
“The homes are new construction with state-of-the-art building systems, designer finishes and premium fixtures and appliances throughout,” says Ross Minshull, site supervisor for Belfor, which has developed dozens of high-rise properties and restored a number of historic buildings. “At The Sanctuary, we’re building high-rise quality within a historic landmark – it’s the best of old and new.”
One of the most striking attributes of The Sanctuary is the central atrium, an expansive interior common area with 38-foot-high ceilings and a breathtaking stained-glass dome. Seattle-based Robin Chell Design is converting the atrium into a residential amenity that draws on the building’s history and architecture and provides a central hub for residents and guests alike.
“This project is matchless in concept, design characteristics, historical significance and overall quality of construction – especially at this price point,” said Chell, who will also design some of the project’s model homes. “Such a hybrid of rich, nostalgic features and modern design elements make this community unique in the Northwest, if not in the country.”
Although the official listings for sale are still several months away, Nall says two unit reservations have already been accepted with more expected in the coming weeks. Unit reservations provide prospective homebuyers with a first right of opportunity to purchase a particular home when it’s offered for sale.
“Every home is distinctive with unique floor plans and features so brokers and homebuyers are vying for the best possible selection,” said Nall.
Additional information on The Sanctuary can be found at www.LiveatSanctuary.com
Disclosure: The Sanctuary is an advertiser of Seattle Condos And Lofts.
